FoodFinger Blog

Grapefruit: health benefits of Grapefruit!

October 27, 2016 23:38

Grapefruit is an accidental hybrid between the orange and the pomelo, but no one is sure when it was first grown. It was first documented in 1750. Grapefruit grows in warm climates; Florida and southern areas of China are the world's top producers. There are several varieties of grapefruit, including white, ruby red and pink, which have varying levels of sourness and sweetness.

Grapefruits are high in fiber and low in calories, and they contain bioflavonoids and other plant chemicals that protect against serious diseases like cancer and heart disease as well as the formation of tumors. Grapefruits increase the body’s metabolic rate, lower insulin levels and give a feeling of fullness. Grapefruit assists the human body in fighting various conditions like fatigue, fever, malaria, diabetes, constipation, indigestion, urinary problems and excess acidity.

Grapefruit seed extract is taken orally for bacterial, viral and fungal infections.

Possible benefits of consuming grapefruits:

Increased protection from bacterial and viral infections

Increased immune function

Reduced cancer risk

Protection against heart disease

Cleanses the lungs after quitting smoking

Reduced asthma symptoms

Tones the skin

Reduces symptoms of depression and stress

Reduces digestive complaints in people with eczema

Promotes hair growth

Reduces symptoms of psoriasis

Lowers cholesterol

Note: Breast cancer: Some research suggests that postmenopausal women who consume a quart or more of grapefruit juice every day have a 25% to 30% increased chance of developing breast cancer. Grapefruit juice decreases how estrogen is broken down in the body and might increase estrogen levels in the body. Until more is known, avoid drinking excessive amounts of grapefruit juice, especially if you have breast cancer or are at higher than usual risk for developing breast cancer.